Scheme to let pupils report attackers on computers

Under the projects launched by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, victims and those judged to be at risk will be offered specialist support, including sports sessions to raise their self-esteem. The schemes also aim to help them recover and reduce fear of future attacks.

Young victims will be able to report attackers anonymously through school computers and a campaign will also inform them about how they can be protected if they give evidence in court. There will also be a drive to improve links between schools, police, charities and other welfare groups to identify potential and actual victims.

The two London schemes, in Lambeth and Lewisham, are among five projects across the country announced today in the latest phase of the Government's Youth Crime Action Plan.

Announcing the pilot projects, which between them will receive around £500,000 in funding, Ms Smith said they were intended to ensure that young victims of crime were helped and not let down by the justice system.

She said: "Young people are often blamed for causing crime but, in fact, they are far more likely to be victims than perpetrators. I hope these pilots will provide young victims with the support to get back on their feet and show them that the criminal justice system will look after their interests."

Andrew Morley, the chief executive of the London Criminal Justice Board, said he hoped the schemes would be rolled out across the capital.